Pala Kala Waterfall

67 km east of Lima, along Highway 22, sits the small town of San Jeronimo de Surco. Here, nestled amid the small but beautiful mountains and valleys that exist in such stark contrast to the sprawling capital 90 minutes away, you'll find access to one of Lima's best kept secrets: Las Cataratas de Pala Kala, or the Pala Kala Waterfall. The hike from Surco to this tiered, 12 m cascade is surprisingly scenic, affording beautiful, rolling mountain vistas as it winds along a mule path for the better part of 3 hours. Aside from a fairly grueling first ascent, the route is not particularly difficult, although bear in mind you'll be ending at around 2,850 m (9,350 ft). Total elevation change for the duration is approximately 800 m, so the journey is nothing to scoff at. Still, with a cool, refreshing waterfall waiting for you, somehow we think you'll be able to manage. Enjoy this beautiful but little-talked-about Peruvian adventure.

Location:San Jeronimo de Surco, 67 km (42 miles) east of Lima, Peru

Note:Keep to the trail for a few hours after passing Pala Kala and you'll arrive at the Chingana Ruins, an added bonus if you're feeling particularly adventurous.